Freehold to Stage HENRY V
By: Tyler Peterson Jul. 08, 2016
Freehold's core value of radical accessibility means no barriers to attending - all performances are pay what you can. Seats can be reserved through brownpapertickets.com or by calling (800) 838-3006.
The genius of Shakespeare's plays is their ability to resonate in every age. Today, the measure of the person we want to lead our countries is very much at the fore. HENRY V explores the journey of a leader under pressure to prove his worth. When asked, director Robin Lynn Smith shared, "I believe Henry transforms into an extraordinary leader when he becomes "of" his followers. He risks his position by throwing in his lot with his soldiers and putting his faith in them."
Henry V has settled onto the throne and has the makings of a fine King. The French Ambassador then brings a challenge from the French Dauphin. Henry swears that he will, with all force, answer this challenge. England prepares for war and Henry's army sails for France.
HENRY V is a play about the extremes of war - heart stirring and merciless at the same time - exploring leadership and the use and misuse of power. It is the human side of war and the characters are assaulted by it at every turn and must make decisions about survival and sacrifice, loyalty and betrayal in the thick of it. Shakespeare takes these characters - from a broad range of classes and diverse nationalities - on a thorny, conflicted journey where they must continually examine their own motives, decisions and actions. Henry has to be a King, the soldiers have to fight a war and the king/warrior necessities are at odds with the best of their compassionate humanity.
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